FISH

Published: Monday, April 1, 2013 at 8:14 a.m.

Last Modified: Monday, April 1, 2013 at 8:14 a.m.

An organization known as FISH is doing some remarkable deeds in Henderson County, and among the volunteers is Ellie Tomberg, who is trying to recruit folks who have some time on their hands to help a neighbor in need. "We are a group of volunteers who provide round-trip medical transportation for Henderson County residents who have no relatives or friends available to drive them," she explains. "We will provide transportation for doctor appointments, hospital visits, trips to therapists and public health and mental health facilities. The name comes from the Greek word Ichthus, and the fish symbol was used by early Christians to recognize each other and to indicate a refuge from persecution. Our local chapter, part of a worldwide network, was formed in 1970 after discussions initiated by the Henderson County Association of Churches. Who are FISH members? Anyone of goodwill and compassion and able to give some time, even one day a week or several days a month. Since there is no public bus system, men and women from various sections of our county have the need for our services. Some of the fringe benefits are getting to meet residents and learning various areas of our city and county. Who does FISH help? The elderly, handicapped, those needing a series of treatments such as therapy after a stroke, dialysis or cobalt treatments in order to stay alive. A person using FISH rides must be ambulatory. FISH does not provide ambulance or rescue squad service. For an emergency, call 911. Volunteers may choose which day or days to work. They can be either a telephone volunteer or a driver volunteer. We are in need of both. To join us or obtain more information, contact either Glenn Forsythe at 692-7082, Myrl Jean Hughes at 891-5556 or Jay Barr at 696-2286." To request transportation, call 693-5100.

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QUIPS GARLAND GOODWIN of Columbus: "With all the invective aimed at the National Rifle Association, has anyone noticed that none of the shooters was a member of the NRA? Are the gun-control advocates perhaps barking up the wrong tree?"

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‘TIED FOR FIRST PLACE': Stump Parrish says the thinking of Congresswoman Michele Bachmann and numerous other Republicans has become ridiculous. "They believe that guns don't kill people, that affordable health care kills people," he says. "I do believe the Republican Party has a contest going to see who can out-stupid the rest of the party. Right now about 75 percent of them are tied for first place."

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‘PAY THE MAN': Walking up to a department store's fabric counter, the pretty girl shopper said to the male clerk, "I want to buy this material for a new dress. How much does it cost?" "Only one kiss per yard," replied the wise guy. "That's fine," replied the girl. "I'll take 10 yards." With expectation and anticipation written all over his face, the clerk hurriedly measured out and wrapped the cloth and then puckered up teasingly. The girl snapped up the package, pointed to a little old man standing beside her, smiled and said, "Grandpa, pay the man."

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST: "The Odd Couple," the first Mainstage production of the Flat Rock Playhouse 2013 season, opens Wednesday, with performances through April 21. Evening performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 8, and matinee performances are Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. The cost of a ticket is $35, with discounts available for seniors, AAA members, military personnel, students and groups. Each Wednesday throughout the run of the show, patrons are eligible to receive a Wednesday Rush Discount (adult rush ticket, $20; student rush ticket, $10). Tickets can be purchased by calling the Playhouse box office at 828-693-0731 or going online at www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

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